Tell us a little about your role at Shannon Waltchack.
Associate Broker – Do deals! Pretty simple job description, a little more detailed to make it happen.
How long have you been involved in Commercial Real Estate?
I have been licensed since late 1987. I took a 5 year break from the industry in the mid 1990’s; so, about 20 years in Commercial Real Estate.
Where did you attend undergrad? Any graduate studies?
Sewanee: The University of the South No graduate studies.
Do you have any designations? Are you currently pursuing any designations?
I took three CCIM courses in the late 80s and would like to start that process again.
How did you decide to enter the world of Commercial Real Estate?
I had some friends in different markets, Atlanta and Dallas, that were in the business and they sure made it look easy! It wasn’t! The mid-late 80’s were not great times in our industry. Tough markets make for good learning. After getting started in real estate, retail site selection and retail tenant representation became my area of interest and expertise.
What has been your “One Shining Moment” so far in your career?
I have not had any real big glamorous deals. I have had some fun deals; one being able to beat Walgreen’s out of a great corner site in a small town in Alabama. It was somewhat complicated working with three unwilling sellers, one being a church, to compile all of the necessary parcels. The Walgreen’s rep has more than once publicly praised me for being able to get the sellers to the table when all of their money couldn’t do it. Makes you feel good when complimented by a competitor. We believe in the power of small, which means everyone can make an impact.
What is one piece of advice that you would like to share?
Be diligent! Work hard at doing more than the client expects, give them the most information and facts on the market, the sites and the competitors than he expects. This will enable them to make the most informed decision and hopefully create a lasting relationship.
How have your experiences in previous positions contributed to your success?
At the beginning of my professional life, I worked for several years in warehousing and distribution management. I was often amazed at good and bad warehouse sites and locations. A beautiful and very functional facility was often made very ineffective by very poor truck access. The best broker must always focus on the “big picture” in site selection. He must know all of the surrounding areas factors for any tenant or end user, not just the immediate site and price.
What are some personal and professional goals for the future?
Our three children are grown and gone, well we have two more semesters before our youngest is really gone. Our two oldest live in Washington DC and Matagalpa, Nicaragua. We plan to travel more in order to visit our kids more often including our youngest wherever he may land after graduation. I have a personal goal to fish more, but I have been trying to attain that goal for many, many years. I look forward to being associated with Shannon Waltchack and all of the bright, entrepreneurial and energetic people here. My goal is to catch this enthusiasm. I would like to grow my base of investment clients and begin to build a portfolio of investment property opportunities for them.
I have been licensed since late 1987. I took a 5 year break from the industry in the mid 1990’s; so, about 20 years in Commercial Real Estate.
